• RICHARD T. CABALLERO JR.
Negros Occidental Provincial Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson is set to propose the ‘greenhouse farming method’ next year to the local farmers in the province, as the province continues its support for organic farming.
Lacson said yesterday that they are consulting engineers for the possible design of greenhouses, and in 2026 the province will be introducing the method to the farmers.
“I already asked Atty. Diaz to ask our engineers regarding this greenhouse, by 2026, under our watch, we will start introducing this greenhouse method to our farmers,” he said.
Lacson believed that if the province succeeds in introducing the method, it would increase the production of farmers.
Greenhouse farming is a method of agriculture where crops are grown inside transparent structures called greenhouses, allowing farmers to regulate environmental factors like temperature, humidity, light, and pest control.
The Sangguniang Panlalawigan’s proposed ordinance regulating the entry of Genetically Modified Organisms (GMO) in the province is facing opposition from pro-organic farmers, however, Lacson said that they will still extend aid for organic farming.
“Our support to the organic movement will continue. We cannot stop the support of the province for them,” he said.
The province had already provided instructions to the Negros Occidental Organic Farmers Association (NOOFA) to give more attention to organic farmers under the watch of the province.
Several local farmers and associations are opposing the proposed amendments to the Anti-GMO ordinance, citing that the use of GMOs in farming will have long-term negative effects on the province’s agricultural sector.
Lacson has been silent on the issue, saying “I will not comment on the GMO issue until such time that the SP shall come up with their version.”*
